Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Tsar Update

The vet called this morning and the news wasn't what we wanted to hear. We were hoping the lab results would indicate an infection that could be treated with antibiotics, but the blood work was normal, no infection.

We're left with more questions than answers. There's something wrong in Tsar's brain and we don't know what or why. I was given the option of taking him to the university for an MRI and spinal tap among other tests, but I declined. Tsar is ten years old now and he has always hated to be fussed over or to have his personal space invaded. I know he would hate these tests and as his advocate, I have to do what's best for him. In this case it means proceeding blind and hoping to keep him comfortable and happy for his remaining time.

We've taken him off all meds including his pain meds for arthritis and he's starting to feel it. He wants no one but me near him, so that's how it'll be for now. On Saturday when his system is clear of all medications, we'll start him on steroids to try to fight whatever is affecting his brain. We don't know what the possibilities of success may be, but that's our plan for now.

After not eating for almost a week, he couldn't resist a baked chicken breast last night as long as I hand fed him bite size pieces. He ate it all plus part of mine. This morning he had a little yogurt and another chicken breast. Once he gets started on steroids his appetite should pick up.

Tsar is in trouble and this is a stop gap solution to buy him some time. Rob and I thank you for all your good wishes for him and hope you'll keep him in your thoughts.

Hi Tsar. My name is Mayzie and my furends Mango and Zona sent me over. I'm sorry you're not feeling good right now and I just want to let you know I'm thinking SUCH good thoughts for you and keeping my paws crossed real tight. Your pawrents are doing the right thing for you and you are very lucky to be so luved.

Mom Beaglebratz here-Poor Tsar and poor you too. It is so not easy to watch our furry companions in their later years. I will say a prayer for both of you for healing and strength - the Beaglebratz are crossing their paws too.Kim

Oh poor, Tsar. We are sending are very best healing thoughts and prayers to him and to the whole family.

This reminds me so much of our cat Tommy. They suspected he had a stroke or some kind of brain lesion or tumor. He started losing his balance and seemed generally confused. We opted not to have invasive procedures because he was 15 and it just didn't feel right. We decided to just keep him comfortable. He lived two years with this condition, getting progressively worse. The prednisone works wonders - helps with pain, increases appetite, etc.

Oh that is heartbreaking news. I understand completely. Let Tsar give it a try with the steroids. Why put him through the stress of MRI and who knows what else. I am sure he enjoyed his special chicken meal very much. He is in my thoughts.

Sue, we are all so sorry to hear this news. Tsar and Phantom are so alike in so many ways. We know you are doing what is best for HIM and that is what really matters. You are a good Mom and his wanting to be near you tells you that. All our paws are crossed for him and Mom sends lots of prayers and good wishes. Hoping for the best.

So sorry to hear this sad news . Of course you will be in our thoughts and prayers.Your plan sounds like the best way to go for Tsar, his appetite should pick up as soon as he starts on the prednisone. Keep us posted on his progress. Winston, Chloe, Cecil and Shawn

We are so very sorry to have been away for so long; Becky, Gus and their peeps are pulling all stops out and putting their paws together to pray....Tsar you are in our hearts tonight ~ waiting for good news angel!

Oh, Tsar. I was hoping is would be something simple and there would be a magic pill to fix it. So sorry that is not the case. You are making the right decision in not subjecting him to what would clearly not be in his best interests. He is lucky to have you, for whatever time he has.Hugs...

Sue, I read this last night and just couldn't comment...I'm so very sorry that this news is not what we, especially you were hoping to hear. But I admire you for making what I know is literally a leap of faith in deciding the direction to take. But you know Tsar better than anyone, and you know what's best for him and you've made the absolute best choice for him--Don't ever doubt that, and don't ever look back and question yourself. Just know that you're not alone in all of this, there are many like me who are out there keeping you all in my prayers and sending healthy thoughts and lots of good energy!!